Promoting Normality (Positions)

Question 1

some examples of upright positions:

Answer 1

sitting
standing
kneeling
squatting

Question 2

supine positions:

Answer 2

lying down
lateral
semi-recumbent
lithotomy

Question 3

what are the advantages of upright positions during the 1st stage of labour?

Answer 3

positively use the effects of gravity

women experience stronger uterine contractions

lessened risk of aortocaval compression

improved alignment of fetus for passage through pelvis

Question 4

what are some advantages of being upright AND mobile during the 1st stage of labour?

Answer 4

can reduce the duration of labour by up to an hour and a half

reduced caesarean section

reduced uptake of epidural

reduced admission of neonates to neonatal units

Question 5

advantages of upright positions during the 2nd stage of labour?

Answer 5

can reduce duration (by around 6 minutes)

fewer instrumental birth

fewer fetal heart rate abnormalities

reduced episiotomy rate

increased likelihood of intact perineum (kneeling)

sitting and squatting can decrease chances of 2nd tears

Question 6

despite its advantages, giving birth in the upright position can result in,,,

Answer 6

a higher blood loss

although this may be down to more accurate measurement

Question 7

it is suggested women with epidurals in the upright position are,,,

Answer 7

LESS likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth